I had a crazy experience last Saturday. I’m a divorced mom, and my daughter, Lily, and I live a normal middle-class life. Everything seemed fine until I pulled into our driveway and saw something shocking—Lily had set up a garage sale with my stuff, including my engagement ring!

“Honey, what are you doing?” I asked, trying to stay calm. Lily smiled and held up some ten-dollar bills, saying, “I’m having a garage sale! Daddy said he needs money for work.”

My heart broke. Mark and I had divorced a year ago, and Lily missed him terribly. She explained, “Daddy said he needs money to spend more time with me.”

I remembered a recent call where Mark had told Lily he was too busy with work. She took his words literally and thought she had to get rich to see him. I hugged her, reassuring her, “You don’t need to do this. Daddy was just joking.”

That evening, I called Mark. He was shocked and regretful, promising to come over. The next morning, he apologized to Lily and took her shopping to buy back everything she sold.

Later, Mark and I had a serious talk. We agreed to communicate better and be more present for Lily. Mark adjusted his schedule to spend more time with her, and we planned family outings despite our differences.

Gradually, Lily became happier and more secure. Our efforts showed her that both her parents loved her deeply, and our love for her would always come first.